incorporate as much fresh, unprocessed food into an entire family’s diet as can be afforded. Cancer cells generally can’t use dietary fats for energy, so high amounts of good-quality


fats are nutritionally beneficial for dogs fighting cancer, along with a reduced amount of protein and no carbs —basically a ketogenic diet. A healthy diet for a pet is one that’s anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer, and consists of


real, preferably raw, whole foods. It should include high-quality protein, including muscle meat, organs and bones. It should also include high amounts of animal fat, high levels of EPA and DHA (omega-3 fatty acids) and a few fresh-cut, low-glycemic veggies. Tis spe- cies-appropriate diet is high in moisture content and contains no grains or starches. Also make sure the diet is balanced following ancestral diet recommendations, which


have much more rigorous standards (higher amounts of minerals and vitamins) than the current dietary recommendations for pets. A few beneficial supplements like probiotics, medicinal mushrooms, digestive enzymes and super green foods can also be very beneficial to enhance immune function.


Reduce or eliminate a pet’s exposure to toxins and minimize chronic stress. Tese include chemical pesticides like flea and tick preventives, lawn chemicals linked to cancer (weed killers, herbicides, etc.), tobacco smoke, flame retardants, household cleaners and air-scenting products like candles and plug-ins. Because we live in a toxic world and avoid- ing all chemical exposure is nearly impossible, a periodic detoxification protocol can also benefit a pet. Research points to the benefits of identifying and removing sources of chronic stress


in an animal’s life. Focusing on providing environmental enrichment and opportunities for dogs to just be dogs (play, sniff and run) on a daily basis is important in keeping them happy and healthy.


For dogs, especially a large or giant breed, hold off neutering or spaying until the age of 18 months to 2 years. Studies have linked spaying and neutering to increasing cancer rates in dogs. Even better, investigate alternative ways to sterilize a pet without upsetting their important hormone balance.


Refuse unnecessary vaccinations. Vaccine protocols should be tailored to minimize risk and maximize protection, taking into account the breed, background, nutritional status, lifestyle and overall vitality of the pet. Vaccines may cause cancer, and titer testing is a responsible way to ensure a pet has adequate immunity in place of over-vaccinating on an annual basis.


Karen Shaw Becker, DVM, a proactive and integrative veterinarian in the Chicago area, con- sults internationally and writes Mercola Healthy Pets.


10 Classic Symptoms


Not to Ignore


Dogs and cats can develop cancer almost anywhere in the body, which is why the symptoms vary depending on the tissues and organs involved and the severity of the disease. Make an appointment with a veterinarian if a pet displays any of these warning signs of cancer.


1. Unusual swellings that don’t go away or that grow. Te best way to discover lumps, bumps or swelling on a dog or cat is to pet them.


2. Sores that won’t heal. Non-healing sores can be a sign of infection or cancer and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.


3. Weight loss. Illness could be the reason a pet is losing weight when it isn’t on a diet.


4. Loss of appetite. Reluctance or refusal to eat is a sign of possible illness.


5. Bleeding or discharge. Bleeding can occur for a number of reasons, most of which signal a problem. Unexplained vomiting and diarrhea are considered abnormal discharges, as well.


6. Offensive smell. An unpleasant odor is a common sign of tumors of the anus, mouth or nose.


7. Difficulty eating or swallowing. Tis is a common sign of cancers of the mouth or neck.


8. Reluctance to exercise or low energy level. Tis is oſten one of the first signs that a pet is not feeling well.


9. Persistent lameness. Tere can be many causes of lameness, including nerve, muscle or bone cancer.


10. Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating. Tese symptoms should be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.


Many of these symptoms also occur with other disorders and diseases, but any pet showing one or more of these signs needs prompt veterinary attention.


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